![Peanuts and peanut butter might not be as healthy as people think [Image: commons.wikimedia.org]](https://staticr1.blastingcdn.com/media/photogallery/2017/8/11/660x290/b_502x220x82/peanuts-and-peanut-butter-might-not-be-as-healthy-as-people-think-image-commonswikimediaorg_1504717.jpg "Peanuts and peanut butter might not be as healthy as people think [Image: commons.wikimedia.org]")
People have been told over the years that Peanuts make the perfect snack because they are an excellent source of protein and healthy fat. Therefore, parents feel comfortable serving Peanut Butter and jelly sandwiches to their kids and even eating peanuts and peanut butter themselves. According to a recent study, peanut butter is not everything it is spread out to be.
Legumes and not nuts
Even though people have been convinced that peanuts are good for the body, Dr. Frank Lipman wants people to rethink what they have been told about peanuts and peanut butter.
The physician and expert in Integrative Medicine says a peanut is not really a nut even though it is part of the name. Peanuts are legumes and that matters when it comes to nutritional value and benefits. However, most people have lived all their lives thinking peanuts are nuts.
Dr. Lipman contends that legumes contain phytic acid and lectins that are hard for the body to digest. He also suggests that if a person has any issues with digestion, they should take notice of how many peanuts or how much peanut butter they're consuming. Peanuts can affect mood swings, cravings, and sleeping.
Alternatives to peanuts
There are alternatives to eating peanuts that are good sources of fiber and healthy fat.
All kinds of nuts and seeds can provide the benefits you once thought peanuts were providing. Instead of eating lots of peanuts, try eating sunflowers seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Some nuts are better for your digestive system. Whichever kind you decide to consume, eat them either raw or dry roasted without salt, sugar or processed oils.
Peanut butter is the not the only kind of nut butter that is available. Choose one that doesn't contain peanuts.
Bottom Line
Peanut fans might be skeptical about Dr. Lipman's advice. Since he is an expert in integrative medicine, his opinion might be worth considering. It is hard to believe peanut butter has been on the list of good things to eat for many years, and now the expert says it is not good for you.
Over the years, the spread has been advertised to be a good source of potassium that lowers the risk of illnesses such as heart disease, strokes, and high blood pressure. The public has been told that the food contains fiber, healthy fats, magnesium, and antioxidants.
Even with the new information about peanuts, some parents are not going to eliminate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches from their children's lunches or their afternoon snacks.
